Martial arts equipment, systems and related methods

ABSTRACT

A martial arts target handle comprising; (a) an accelerometer providing a first data output signal; (b) an altimeter providing a second data output signal; (c) a CPU receiving and storing said first and second data output signals; and (d) a power source providing power said accelerometer, altimeter and CPU.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This is the U.S. National Stage of International Patent Application No.PCT/IL2016/051026 filed Sep. 15, 2016, which was published in Englishunder PCT Article 21(2), and which in turn claims the benefit of UnitedStates Provisional Patent Application Nos. 62/219,701 filed Sep. 17,2015 and 62/221,228 filed Sep. 21, 2015.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The various described embodiments are in the field of martial artstraining.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In tae kwon do it is common for a trainer or coach to use a hand heldpaddle as a target. The student or trainee attempts to kick the paddleas it is raised, lowered and moved from side to side by the trainer orcoach.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

One aspect of some embodiments of the invention relates to a modular taekwon do paddle. In some embodiments the handle is provided separatelyfrom the strike-target portion of the paddle. Alternatively oradditionally, in some embodiments hardware for log-in of a traineeand/or log-in of trainee performance parameters during a workout arehoused in the handle. According to various exemplary embodiments of theinvention the hardware includes an accelerometer and/or altimeter and/orCPU and/or power source (e.g. a battery). In some embodiments a userinterface for the trainer is housed in the handle. In some embodiments awaveguide (e.g. optical fiber) protrudes from the handle. Optionally,the waveguide conducts light to a display on the target when the paddleis connected to the handle.

According to another aspect of some embodiments of the invention astrain relief mechanism is positioned between the handle and the targetof a tae kwon do paddle. According to various exemplary embodiments ofthe invention the strain relief mechanism includes a spring and/or ahinge and/or a flexible polymer. In various embodiments of the inventionthe strain relief mechanism is provided separately, as part of a handleadapted for connection to a strike-target, as part of a strike-targetadapted for connection to a handle, or as an integral part of a fullyassembled tae kwon do paddle.

According to another aspect of some embodiments of the invention a handheld martial arts target is equipped with hardware that logs-in atrainee for a training session. According to these embodiments, traineesare provided with wearable devices adapted to communicate with thehardware that logs in a trainee. According to various exemplaryembodiments of the invention the hardware for logging in a traineerelies on NFC (near field contact), IR (Infra-red), RF (RadioFrequency), Bluetooth or a physical connection. Alternatively oradditionally, in some embodiments hardware for logging of traineeperformance parameters during a workout is housed in the handle.According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention the logginghardware includes an accelerometer and/or altimeter and/or CPU and/orpower source (e.g. a battery). Alternatively or additionally, in someembodiments a hand held martial arts target includes a data link to aremote device. According to the embodiments, log files concerningtrainee performance during a training session are transmitted to theremote device.

According to another aspect of some embodiments of the invention amethod includes transmitting altimeter and accelerometer data to amemory associated with a CPU residing in a hand held target; storing thedata in a log file; associating the log file with a user identityacquired by trainee log-in hardware installed in the hand held target tocreate a user log file; and transmitting the user log file to anexternal device.

It will be appreciated that the various aspects described above relateto solution of technical problems associated with objective evaluationof trainee performance during a martial arts training session.

Alternatively or additionally, it will be appreciated that the variousaspects described above relate to solution of technical problems relatedto breakage of tae kwon do paddle handles and/or reduction of wristinjuries among trainers that hold tae kwon do paddles for traineesduring a workout.

In some exemplary embodiments of the invention there is provided amartial arts target handle including; (a) an accelerometer providing afirst data output signal; (b) an altimeter providing a second dataoutput signal; (c) a CPU receiving and storing the first and second dataoutput signals; and (d) a power source providing power theaccelerometer, altimeter and CPU. ISE the handle includes a connector toa strike-target. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments thehandle is integrally formed with or connected to a strike target. AIAISEthe handle includes a display. Alternatively or additionally, in someembodiments the handle includes a wave guide extending from the handle.Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the handle includes aconnector compatible with an external charging source. Alternatively oradditionally, in some embodiments the CPU includes a clock and a timestamp module adapted to apply a time stamp to the first data outputsignal and the second data output signal. Alternatively or additionally,in some embodiments the handle includes a user interface positioned toreceive commands from a hand holding the handle.

In some exemplary embodiments of the invention there is provided amartial arts target including: (a) a handle; (b) a strike-target; and(c) a strain relief mechanism positioned between the handle and thestrike target. In some embodiments the strain relief mechanism includesa spring. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the strainrelief mechanism includes a hinge. Alternatively or additionally, insome embodiments the strain relief mechanism includes a polymer having a10% compression value (ISO 844) between 105 kPA and 347 kPA.Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the strain reliefmechanism includes two pieces that slide against one another.

In some exemplary embodiments of the invention there is provided amartial arts training system including: (a) one or more hand heldtargets; (b) one or more wearable devices; and (c) trainee log-inhardware installed in the target(s) and the wearable device(s). In someembodiments the trainee log-in hardware includes near field contact(NFC) hardware. In some embodiments active NFC hardware is installed inthe target(s) and passive NFC hardware is installed in the wearabledevice(s). Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments passiveNFC hardware is installed in the target(s) and active NFC hardware isinstalled in the wearable device(s). Alternatively or additionally, insome embodiments the target(s) include communication hardware that opensa channel of communication to an external data processing device.

In some exemplary embodiments of the invention there is provided amethod including: (a) transmitting altimeter and accelerometer data to amemory associated with a CPU residing in a hand held target; (b) storingthe data in a log file; (c) associating the log file with a traineeidentity acquired by log-in hardware installed in the hand held targetto create a trainee log file; and (d) transmitting the trainee log fileto an external device. According to various exemplary embodiments of theinvention the external device is external to the hand held target and/orto the system. In some embodiments the transmitting the trainee log fileto an external device relies on at least one member of the groupconsisting of NFC (near field contact), IR (Infra-red), RF (RadioFrequency), Wi-Fi, 3G, 4G, LTE, Bluetooth and a physical connection.Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the memory associatedwith the CPU includes an integral memory. Alternatively or additionally,in some embodiments the memory associated with the CPU includes aconnectable memory. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodimentsthe external device is a wearable device. Alternatively or additionally,in some embodiments the associating includes applying a time stamp tothe log file. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments theassociating includes assembling two or more log files belonging to asingle trainee into a composite trainee log file.

Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used hereinhave the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill inthe art to which this invention belongs. Although suitable methods andmaterials are described below, methods and materials similar orequivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice of thepresent invention. In case of conflict, the patent specification,including definitions, will control. All materials, methods, andexamples are illustrative only and are not intended to be limiting.

As used herein, the terms “comprising” and “including” or grammaticalvariants thereof are to be taken as specifying inclusion of the statedfeatures, integers, actions or components without precluding theaddition of one or more additional features, integers, actions,components or groups thereof. This term is broader than, and includesthe terms “consisting of” and “consisting essentially of” as defined bythe Manual of Patent Examination Procedure of the United States Patentand Trademark Office. Thus, any recitation that an embodiment “includes”or “comprises” a feature is a specific statement that sub embodiments“consist essentially of” and/or “consist of” the recited feature.

The phrase “consisting essentially of” or grammatical variants thereofwhen used herein are to be taken as specifying the stated features,integers, steps or components but do not preclude the addition of one ormore additional features, integers, steps, components or groups thereofbut only if the additional features, integers, steps, components orgroups thereof do not materially alter the basic and novelcharacteristics of the claimed composition, device or method.

The phrase “adapted to” as used in this specification and theaccompanying claims imposes additional structural limitations on apreviously recited component.

The term “method” refers to manners, means, techniques and proceduresfor accomplishing a given task including, but not limited to, thosemanners, means, techniques and procedures either known to, or readilydeveloped from known manners, means, techniques and procedures bypractitioners of architecture and/or computer science.

Implementation of the method and system according to embodiments of theinvention involves performing or completing selected tasks or stepsmanually, automatically, or a combination thereof. Moreover, accordingto actual instrumentation and equipment of exemplary embodiments ofmethods, apparatus and systems of the invention, several selected stepscould be implemented by hardware or by software on any operating systemof any firmware or a combination thereof. For example, as hardware,selected steps of the invention could be implemented as a chip or acircuit. As software, selected steps of the invention could beimplemented as a plurality of software instructions being executed by acomputer using any suitable operating system. In any case, selectedsteps of the method and system of the invention could be described asbeing performed by a data processor, such as a computing platform forexecuting a plurality of instructions.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In order to understand the invention and to see how it may be carriedout in practice, embodiments will now be described, by way ofnon-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying figures.In the figures, identical and similar structures, elements or partsthereof that appear in more than one figure are generally labeled withthe same or similar references in the figures in which they appear.Dimensions of components and features shown in the figures are chosenprimarily for convenience and clarity of presentation and are notnecessarily to scale. The attached figures are:

FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of a handle of a martial artstarget according to some exemplary embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 2a is a schematic representation of a martial arts target accordingto some exemplary embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 2b 1 is a schematic representation of a strain relief mechanism ofa martial arts target according to some exemplary embodiments of theinvention in conjunction with a strike target;

FIG. 2b 2 is a schematic representation of a strain relief mechanism ofa martial arts target according to some exemplary embodiments of theinvention in conjunction with a strike target and a handle;

FIG. 2c is cross sectional view of the strain relief mechanism of FIG.2b 2 through line S-S enlarged to show detail;

FIG. 2d 1 is a top view of a strain relief mechanism in conjunction witha strike target according to some exemplary embodiments of the inventionin a first operational state;

FIG. 2d 2 is a top view of a strain relief mechanism in conjunction witha strike target according to some exemplary embodiments of the inventionin a second operational state;

FIG. 3 is a schematic representation of a system according to someexemplary embodiments of the invention; and

FIG. 4 is a simplified flow diagram of a method according to someexemplary embodiments of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Embodiments of the invention relate to hand held martial arts targets(e.g. tae kwon do paddles), portions thereof, and systems including suchtargets and methods which use such targets.

Specifically, some embodiments of the invention can be used to log datafrom a trainee workout and/or contribute to a reduction to wear and tearon the target and/or contribute to a reduction in force transmitted to ahand holding the target.

The principles and operation of hand held martial arts targets (e.g. taekwon do paddles), portions thereof, systems including such targets andmethods which use such targets according to exemplary embodiments of theinvention may be better understood with reference to the drawings andaccompanying descriptions.

Before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention in detail, itis to be understood that the invention is not limited in its applicationto the details set forth in the following description or exemplified bythe Examples. The invention is capable of other embodiments or of beingpracticed or carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understoodthat the phraseology and terminology employed herein is for the purposeof description and should not be regarded as limiting.

Exemplary Handle

FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of a handle of a martial artstarget, indicated generally as 100, according to some exemplaryembodiments of the invention. For purposes of this specification and theaccompanying claims, the term “handle” indicates that the entire targetis a hand held device. This definition excludes pole mounted or platformmounted devices.

Depicted exemplary handle 100 includes a main body 102 containingelectronics components that act in concert to gather data pertaining totrainee performance during a workout.

In the depicted embodiment, one electronics component is anaccelerometer 110 providing a first data output signal 112. Signal 112indicates strike force of a blow delivered to a strike target.

In the depicted embodiment, another electronics component is analtimeter 120 providing a second data output signal 122. In someembodiments altimeter function is provided by an ultrasonic transducer.In other exemplary embodiments of the invention, altimeter function isprovided by a laser range finder. In some embodiments the altimeter ispositioned in the handle so that it can send a signal 121 to, andreceive a reflection 123 of that signal from, the floor. In the depictedembodiment, handle 120 is equipped with a rotation mechanism (indicatedas dashed line R-R). According to the depicted embodiment, the trainergrasps the handle on the opposite side of line R-R from altimeter 120.The rear portion of the handle containing altimeter 120 rotates at lineR-R so that signal 121 is aimed perpendicular to the floor. In someembodiments the weight of altimeter 120 is sufficient to cause therotation at R-R. In other exemplary embodiments of the invention, anadditional weight (not depicted) is installed to insure appropriaterotation.

In the depicted embodiment, CPU 130 receives and stores first and seconddata output signals 112 and 122. In some embodiments storage is inmemory 132. Alternatively or additionally, in the depicted embodiment apower source (depicted as battery 140) provides power to accelerometer110, altimeter 120 and CPU 130. In some exemplary embodiments of theinvention, CPU 130 includes a clock 134 and a time stamp module 136adapted to apply a time stamp to first data output signal 112 and seconddata output signal 122. In some exemplary embodiments of the invention,the time stamped signals are stored in memory 132. In some embodimentshandle 100 includes a connector 150 to a strike-target (partiallydepicted as 155). In some embodiments handle 100 is integrally formedwith or connected to a strike target (partially depicted as 155).

In the depicted embodiment, handle 100 includes a display 160. Accordingto various exemplary embodiments of the invention display 160 includesan LCD panel and/or LCD indicators and/or an audio output device such asa buzzer or bell.

In the depicted embodiment, handle 100 includes one or more wave guides170 extending from the handle. In the depicted embodiment, handle 100includes one or more light sources 172. In some embodiments wave guide170 is provided as an optical fiber. In some embodiments the wave guideconducts light to one or more trainee facing displays (not depicted) instrike target 155. For example, in some embodiments target 155 has aleft trainee facing display and a right trainee facing display. In someembodiments the trainee facing display comprises a translucent ortransparent panel which is visibly brighter when light from source 172propagates through wave guide 170 (e.g. an optical fiber).

In the depicted embodiment, handle 100 includes a connector 180compatible with an external charging source. According to variousexemplary embodiments of the invention connector 180 is configured as aUSB port or a DC jack. Connection of connector 180 to the external powersource charges power supply 140.

Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments handle 100 includes auser interface 190 positioned to receive commands from a hand holdingthe handle. According to various exemplary embodiments of the inventioninterface 190 includes a touch screen and/or pushbuttons and/orswitches. In some embodiments user interface 190 is configured to accepta small number of input commands (e.g. left kick, right kick and a setof predefined combinations (e.g. Left/Left; Left/Right; Right/Left andRight/Right). In some embodiments use of interface 190 contributes to areduction in vocal commands from the trainer to the trainee.Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments input of a commandvia user interface 190 operates a light 172 causing light to propagatethrough a wave guide 170 to a trainee facing display.

In some embodiments an input received at 190 is time stamped by timestamp module 136 and stored in memory 132. This practice contributes toan ability to evaluate a trainee in terms of delay between trainer inputreceived at interface 190 and impact of a kick as registered byaccelerometer 110 (which is also time stamped). Alternatively oradditionally, this practice contributes to an ability to evaluate atrainee in terms of height (altitude) of a kick as indicated by signal122 of altimeter 120 (which is also time stamped) for each trainer inputreceived at interface 190.

Exemplary Hand Held Martial Arts Target

FIG. 2a is a schematic representation of a martial arts target,indicated generally as 200, according to some exemplary embodiments ofthe invention. In some embodiments martial arts target 200 is configuredas a tae kwon do paddle. Depicted exemplary target 200 includes a handle210, a strike-target 230 and a strain relief mechanism 220 positionedbetween handle 210 and strike target 230.

In some embodiments strike target 230 is padded. Alternatively oradditionally, in some embodiments strike target 230 includes one or moretrainee facing displays 232. In FIG. 2a one trainee facing display 232is visible on the front side of strike target 230. In many embodiments,a corresponding trainee facing display is present on the opposite (back)side of strike target 230. In some embodiments display(s) 232 arelighted by light propagated from a light source 172 through a wave guide170 (See FIG. 1 and explanation above). In some embodiments at least aportion of the light is visually perceptible to a trainee standing onthe opposite side of line F-F relative to strike target 230.

In some embodiments strain relief mechanism 220 includes a spring (notdepicted). According to various exemplary embodiments of the inventionthe spring includes a leaf spring portion and/or a coil spring portion.The spring is configured and positioned to allow strike target 230 tomove from side to side relative to handle 210 in response to an impactreceived at impact zone 234.

Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments strain reliefmechanism 220 includes a hinge (not depicted). In some embodiments thehinge is configured and positioned to define a maximum side to siderange of motion for strike target 230 relative to handle 210 in responseto an impact received at impact zone 234.

Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments strain reliefmechanism 220 includes a flexible polymer.

Strain relief mechanism 220 contributes to a reduction in wear and tearand/or breakage of target 200 and/or injuries to the hand and/or wristof a trainer holding handle 210.

Exemplary Strain Relief Mechanism

FIGS. 2b 1, 2 b 2, 2 c, 2 d 1 and 2 d 2 illustrate a strain reliefmechanism of a martial arts target, indicated generally as 222 accordingto some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Mechanism 222 is oneexemplary way to provide mechanism 220 in FIG. 2 a.

FIG. 2b 1 is a schematic representation of a strain relief mechanism,indicated generally as 222, of a martial arts target according to someexemplary embodiments of the invention. This perspective view showsmechanism 222 in conjunction with a strike target 230 having a righthalf (230R) and a left half (230L).

FIG. 2b 2 is a schematic representation of exemplary strain reliefmechanism 222 in conjunction with a strike target (Right half 230R isvisible in the figure) and a handle 210.

FIG. 2c is cross sectional view of strain relief mechanism 222 of FIG.2b 2 through line S-S enlarged to show detail. Depicted exemplary strainrelease mechanism 222 is depicted assembled between two halves of handle210. In the depicted embodiment, retention and engagement by the handlecontributes to function of the mechanism.

Depicted exemplary strain release mechanism 222 includes two plates 223,each of which has a plate foot 225 at the terminus installed in handle210.

Plates 223 protrude from handle 210 and extend between right striketarget 230R and left strike target 230L (see FIG. 2b 1).

In the depicted embodiment, plate feet 225 are engaged and retained byelastomeric shoes 224. Shoes 224 are, in turn, engaged and retained bythe two halves of handle 210.

In the depicted embodiment, the two halves of handle 210 each include aprotrusion 211 extending inwardly towards plates 223. In the depictedembodiment, there is a space 229 between each protrusion 211 and plate223. In some embodiments spaces 229 contribute to the function ofmechanism 222.

Depicted exemplary mechanism 222 includes plate movement governors 226attached to the inner wall of handle 210. According to various exemplaryembodiments of the invention plate movement governors 226 includesprings and/or blocks of elastomeric material. Alternatively oradditionally, in some embodiments mechanism 222 includes a support rib500 in the area of resistance.

FIGS. 2d 1 and 2 d 2 are top views of strain relief mechanism 222 inconjunction with a strike target in two different operational states.FIG. 2d 1 shows mechanism 222 at rest and FIG. 2d 2 shoes mechanism 222responding to a kick or other blow as indicated by leftward facing whitearrow.

In FIG. 2d 1 left and right plate feet (225L and 225R) are aligned andin contact with shoe 224 at line X-X. Plates 223L and 223R are likewisealigned and coextensive between strike targets 230L and 230R. Line Y-Ydefines the distal end of both plates 223L and 223R.

In response to a kick or other blow delivered to right target 230R, bothplates 223L and 223R flex leftward as depicted in FIG. 2d 2. As theyflex, the pates slide along one another so that plate foot 225L dropsslightly below line X-X and plate foot 225R rises slightly above lineX-X. At line Y-Y plate 223R extends slightly beyond Y-Y and plate 223Lretracts slightly below Y-Y. The motion of plate feet 225L and 225R isrestricted by shoes 224 and/or plate movement governors 226. Shoes 224and/or plate movement governors 226 absorb much of the force of the kick(or other blow) that was delivered to target 230R. As a result, lessforce from the blow is transmitted via handle 210 (see FIG. 2a ) to thehand or wrist of a trainer holding handle 210.

Depicted exemplary strain relief mechanism 222 includes two pieces 223Rand 223L that slide against one another.

In some embodiments which include both a strain relief mechanism 220(e.g. 222) and accelerometer 110, accelerometer 110 corrects outputsignal 112 to correct for the force absorbed by mechanism 220.

Exemplary Martial Arts Training Evaluation System

FIG. 3 is a schematic representation of a system, indicated generally as300, according to some exemplary embodiments of the invention.

Depicted exemplary system 300 includes one or more hand held targets310. According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention targets310 include features described hereinabove in the context of FIGS. 1and/or 2 a and/or 2 b and/or 2 c and/or 2 d.

Depicted exemplary system 300 also includes one or more wearable devices320. According to various exemplary embodiments of the inventionwearable devices 320 are configured as bracelets (e.g. FIT-BIT orSAMSUNG GEAR FIT) and/or watches (e.g. APPLE watch or SAMSUNG smartwatch) and/or rings and/or belts and/or as tags attachable to such itemsor other articles of clothing.

Depicted exemplary system 300 also includes trainee log-in hardware (312and 322) installed in target(s) 310 and wearable device(s) 320respectively.

For simplicity, a single wearable device 320 and a single target 310 aredepicted, although a larger number would typically be present in actualuse. In some embodiments many users log in sequentially with one, or asmall number, of trainer held targets. Alternatively or additionally, insome embodiments a single user logs in with several trainer held targetsconcurrently.

In some embodiments trainee log-in hardware (312 and 322) includes nearfield contact (NFC) hardware. In some embodiments active NFC hardware isinstalled in target(s) 310 and passive NFC hardware is installed in thewearable device(s) 320. In other exemplary embodiments of the invention,passive NFC hardware is installed in the target(s) 310 and active NFChardware is installed in the wearable device(s) 320.

In some embodiments target(s) 310 include communication hardware 330designed and configured to open a channel of communication 332 to anexternal data processing device 340. According to various exemplaryembodiments of the invention external data processing device 340includes a smart phone and/or laptop and/or wearable device and/ordesktop computer and/or tablet device and/or a cloud storage device. Insome embodiments external data processing device 340 includes a firstdevice that receives data via channel 332 and relays the data to asecond device (e.g. a cloud storage server). According to variousexemplary embodiments of the invention channel of communication 332 iswireless or wired. In some embodiments wearable device 320 functionsalso as device 340.

Exemplary Data Acquisition and Transfer Method

FIG. 4 is a simplified flow diagram of a method for recording anobjective evaluation of a martial arts workout, indicated generally as400, according to some exemplary embodiments of the invention.

Depicted exemplary method 400 includes transmitting 410 altimeter andaccelerometer data to a memory associated with a CPU residing in a handheld target. According to various exemplary embodiments of the inventionthe altimeter data originates from an ultrasound transducer or laserrange finder provided in the hand held target. Depicted exemplary method400 includes storing 420 the data in a log file.

Depicted exemplary method 400 includes associating 430 the log file witha trainee identity acquired by log-in hardware installed in the handheld target to create a trainee log file.

Depicted exemplary method 400 includes transmitting 440 the trainee logfile to an external device.

According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention transmitting440 the trainee log file to an external device relies on NFC (near fieldcontact) and/or IR (Infra-red) and/or RF (Radio Frequency) and/or Wi-Fiand/or 3G and/or 4G and/or LTE and/or Bluetooth and/or a physical(wired) connection. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodimentsthe memory associated with said CPU is an integral memory. Alternativelyor additionally, in some embodiments the memory associated with the CPUis a connectable memory (for example a flash drive).

In some embodiments the external device is a wearable device.Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments associating 430includes applying a time stamp to the log file. Alternatively oradditionally, in some embodiments associating comprises assembling twoor more log files belonging to a single trainee into a composite traineelog file.

First Exemplary Use Scenario

Systems and/or targets and/or handles and/or methods describedhereinabove are expected to find utility in a variety of martial artsworkout settings in which a trainer induces a trainee to deliver aseries of blows.

For example, in a tae kwon do training session a trainer stands oppositea trainee.

In some embodiments the trainee approaches and brings a wearable device320 (FIG. 3) bearing log-in hardware 322 into proximity with matchinglog-in hardware 312 in a target 310 held by the trainer. Proximitycauses a log-in event which opens a log file in memory 132 of CPU 130(FIG. 1). According to some exemplary embodiments of the invention thelog file is associated with the name of the trainee. According to theseembodiments the trainee name is stored in a memory of log-in hardware322. In other exemplary embodiments of the invention, the log file isassociated with an alphanumeric string. According to these embodimentsthe alphanumeric string is stored in a memory of log-in hardware 322.Translation of the alphanumeric string to a trainee name is performedlater by external device 340. In some embodiments external device 340communicates with a remote server to perform the translation. In otherexemplary embodiments of the invention, wearable device 320 and externaldevice 340 are the same device. According to these embodiments, nethertrainee name nor alphanumeric string are required for log-in. Accordingto these embodiments, the system presumes that all training sessionsassociated with a specific wearable device 320 belong to the sametrainee.

In other exemplary embodiments of the invention, the trainer inputs a“start session” command via user input 190 (FIG. 1). According to theseembodiments, trainee log-in occurs at the end of the session.

Once log-in is complete, the training session begins. The trainer inputsa command via user interface 190 (FIG. 1). The command input is timestamped and stored in memory 132. The command input also activates alight 172 which propagates light via an optical fiber 170 (or otherwaveguide) to a trainee facing display 232 (FIG. 2a ).

The trainee sees trainee facing display 232 light up. In someembodiments display 232 is side specific with respect to strike target230 (i.e. Left or Right). The trainee responds by delivering a kick toimpact area 234 of strike target 230.

Accelerometer 110 (FIG. 1) registers acceleration caused by the kick andsends a signal 112 to CPU 130 which is time stamped and stored in memory132 together with height information provided by altimeter 120 as partof signal 122.

Time stamped data concerning trainer inputs and trainee responses interms of kick strength (as reflected by accelerometer data) and heightcontinues to accumulate in memory 132 throughout the training session ina trainee log file.

According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention the end of asession is marked by an “end session” input provided by the trainer viauser input 190 and/or by trainee log-in (log-out in this case) asdescribed hereinabove.

Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the trainer sees dataon display 160 during the training session. Examples of data that can bedisplayed include, but are not limited to, strike force (individual oraverage), delay between trainer input and kick delivery (individual oraverage) and strike height (individual or average).

At the end of the session the log file, associated with a specifictrainee and/or a specific wearable device 320 (FIG. 3) is transmittedvia a channel of communication 332 to an external device 340. Accordingto various exemplary embodiments of the invention external device 340analyzes the log file and/or compares the log file with previous logfiles from the same trainee and/or compares the log file withperformance data from one or more other trainees. Examples of statisticsthat can are reported according to various exemplary embodimentsinclude, but are not limited to, strike force (individual or average),delay between trainer input and kick delivery (individual or average)and strike height (individual or average). Alternatively oradditionally, the log file provide s information on misses. For example,if the trainer provided kick left inputs 3 times at a height of 180 cmor more and none of those inputs were answered with a kick the systemcan report no impact at 180 cm. Alternatively or additionally, in someembodiments composite data is reported (e.g. strike force as a functionof height or strike force as a function of time within the trainingsession).

Second Exemplary Use Scenario

Systems and/or targets and/or handles and/or methods describedhereinabove are expected to find utility in a variety of martial artsworkout settings in which a trainer induces a trainee to deliver aseries of blows.

For example, a boxing trainer stands opposite a trainee.

In some embodiments the trainee approaches and brings a wearable device320 (FIG. 3) bearing log-in hardware 322 into proximity with matchinglog-in hardware in a one of two targets 310 held by the trainer.Proximity causes a log-in event as described hereinabove. As describedabove, in other exemplary embodiments of the invention, the trainerinputs a “start session” command via user input 190 (FIG. 1).

The trainer inputs a command via user interface 190 (FIG. 1). In someembodiments the two targets share a single interface 190. In otherexemplary embodiments of the invention, each target has its owninterface 190. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments asingle log-in as described hereinabove and/or a single “start session”command activates both targets. The command input is time stamped andstored in memory 132. The command input also activates a light 172 whichpropagates light via an optical fiber 170 (or other waveguide) to atrainee facing display 232 (FIG. 2a ).

The trainee sees trainee facing display 232 light up. In someembodiments display 232 is side specific with respect to strike target230 (i.e. Left or Right). The trainee responds by delivering a blow toimpact area 234 of strike target 230.

Accelerometer 110 (FIG. 1) registers acceleration caused by the punchand sends a signal 112 to CPU 130 which is time stamped and stored inmemory 132 together with height information provided by altimeter 120 aspart of signal 122. Time stamped data concerning trainer inputs andtrainee responses in terms of punch strength (as reflected byaccelerometer data) and height continues to accumulate in memory 132throughout the training session in a trainee log file. In someembodiments a single log file stores data pertaining to both targets.

According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention the end of asession is marked by an “end session” input provided by the trainer viauser input 190 and/or by trainee log-in as described hereinabove.

Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the trainer sees dataon display 160 during the training session. Examples of data that can bedisplayed include, but are not limited to, strike force (individual oraverage), delay between trainer input and punch delivery (individual oraverage) and strike height (individual or average).

At the end of the session the log file, associated with a specifictrainee and/or a specific wearable device 320 (FIG. 3) is transmittedvia a channel of communication 332 to an external device 340. Accordingto various exemplary embodiments of the invention external device 340analyzes the log file and/or compares the log file with previous logfiles from the same trainee and/or compares the log file withperformance data from one or more other trainees. Examples of statisticsthat can be reported include, but are not limited to, strike force(individual or average), delay between trainer input and punch delivery(individual or average) and strike height (individual or average).Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments composite data isreported (e.g. strike force as a function of height or strike force as afunction of time within the training session).

In some embodiments the targets 310 are equipped with strain reliefmechanisms (e.g. 220 in FIG. 2). Optionally, use of a strain reliefmechanism contributes to an ability of a small trainer to absorb blowsdelivered by a larger trainee.

Exemplary Size and Weigh Constraints

Referring again to FIG. 1, altimeter 120, accelerometer 110, CPU 130 andpower source 140 are all installed in main body 102 of handle 100. Sincehandle 100 is to be held, and moved, by a trainer during a trainingsession, this imposes size and weight limitations on each of thecomponents.

For that reason, commercially available components weighing 1, 2, 5, 7or 10 grams each, or intermediate or lesser numbers of grams, areoptionally selected for use in the context of various embodiments of theinvention.

For example, in some embodiments the aggregate weight of altimeter 120,accelerometer 110, CPU 130 and power source 140 is less than 50 grams,40 grams, 30 grams, 20 grams or 10 grams or intermediate or lessernumber of grams.

Exemplary Power Source Constraints

In some embodiments power source 140 is a battery. In addition to theweight constraints discussed above, some embodiments require the batteryto have sufficient life to power other components through one or moretraining sessions of 10 minutes, 20 minutes, 30 minutes, 40 minutes, 50minutes or 60 minutes or intermediate or greater lengths of time.

Alternatively or additionally, batteries with short recharge timesrelative to the length of a training session are used in someembodiments. For example, a trainer performing 60 minute trainingsessions can work indefinitely with two tae kwon do paddles equippedwith handles 100 (FIG. 1) if the recharge time for power source 140 isless than 60 minutes. According to these embodiments, the trainerswitches the paddle in her hand for the paddle in the charger at the endof each session.

Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments configuration ofother components of the system contribute to an extension in batterylife.

For example, use of low power elements such as LEDs in display 160and/or light source 172 contributes to a reduction in power consumptionthat extends battery life. Alternatively or additionally, in someembodiments light source 172 is configured with a duty cycle of lessthan 100% to further reduce power consumption.

Alternatively or additionally, for example if altimeter 120 transmitssignal 122 only in response to an input from user interface 190, powerconsumption by the altimeter is reduced, contributing to an increase inbattery life.

Exemplary Commercially Available Hardware

One example of a commercially available altimeter 120 suitable for usein the context of exemplary embodiments of the invention is TEXASINSTRUMENTS—PGA450TPWRQ1 (TEXAS INSTRUMENTS; USA). The PGA450-Q1 deviceis a fully integrated system-on-a-chip analog front-end for ultrasonicsensing and distance measurements.

One example of a commercially available accelerometer 110 suitable foruse in the context of exemplary embodiments of the invention isSTMICROELECTRONICS LIS3DHTR. The LIS3DH is an ultra-low-power highperformance three axes nano accelerometer featuring digital I²C/SPIserial interface standard output. The LIS3DH three axes accelerometerfeatures ultra-low-power operational modes that allow advanced powersaving and smart embedded functions. The LIS3DH accelerometer hasdynamically user selectable full scales of ±2 g/±4 g/±8 g/±16 g and iscapable of measuring applications with output data rates from 1 Hz to 5kHz.

One example of a commercially available CPU 130 suitable for use in thecontext of exemplary embodiments of the invention isSTMICROELECTRONICS—STM32L152V8T6-A. This Ultra-Low-Power MCU is ARM®Cortex®-M3-based STM32 using ST's ultra-low-leakage process technologywith an innovative autonomous dynamic voltage scaling and 5 low-powermodes offering platform flexibility to fit any application.

One example of a commercially available power source 140 suitable foruse in the context of exemplary embodiments of the invention is aSOSHINE RCR123-3.7-700 (SOSHINE, Shenzhen, and P.R China). This batteryprovides 700 mAh at 3.7 Volts for up to 6 hours with a recharge time of2 hours.

Exemplary Materials

In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, shoes 224 and/orgovernors 226 are constructed of elastomeric polymers. Table 1summarizes the relevant properties of three commercially availableelastomeric polymers (PA 60; PA 80 and PA 100) produced by the PALZIVgroup in Israel.

TABLE 1 Polymer Properties Tensile Compression Density strength Elonga-10%; 25%; Kg/m3 kPa tion % 50% kPa Shore A/OO polymer ISO 845 ISO 1798ISO 1798 ISO 844 ASTMD2240 PA60 60 572 163 105; 122; 70 (OO by 197ISO868) PA80 80 957 172 124; 155; 25/70 245 PA100 100 1476 133 198; 233;70 (A by 347 ISO868)

In some embodiments PA80 is employed.

Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments sheets 223 areconstructed of nylon and/or polyethylene. According to various exemplaryembodiments of the invention thickness is adjusted to achieve thedesired degree of flexibility.

Exemplary Advantages

In some embodiments preparation and review of a user log file asdescribed hereinabove contributes to an increase in objectivity ofevaluation of trainee performance. For example, the user log fileclearly indicate limitations on strike height and/or a tendency to tireafter a certain amount of time and/or differences in performance betweenright side and left side.

Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments comparison of a userlog files as described hereinabove for the same user over a period oftime contributes to an increase in objectivity of evaluation of traineeperformance improvement.

Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments comparison of a userlog files as described hereinabove for different users contributes to anincrease in objectivity of ranking of different trainees. This isuseful, for example, in seeding competitors for a competition and/or inidentifying well matched opponents for a spectator event.

Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments installation of astrain release mechanism 220 in a martial arts target 220 contributes toa reduction in damage to the target itself.

Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments installation of astrain release mechanism 220 in a martial arts target 220 contributes toa reduction in injury to the hand and/or wrist of a trainer holding thetarget.

It is expected that during the life of this patent many batteries,altimeters and accelerometers and flexible polymers will be developedand the scope of the invention is intended to include all such newtechnologies a priori.

Although the invention has been described in conjunction with specificembodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modificationsand variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art.Accordingly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives,modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and broad scopeof the appended claims.

Specifically, a variety of numerical indicators have been utilized. Itshould be understood that these numerical indicators could vary evenfurther based upon a variety of engineering principles, materials,intended use and designs incorporated into the various embodiments ofthe invention. Additionally, components and/or actions ascribed toexemplary embodiments of the invention and depicted as a single unit maybe divided into subunits. Conversely, components and/or actions ascribedto exemplary embodiments of the invention and depicted assub-units/individual actions may be combined into a single unit/actionwith the described/depicted function.

Alternatively, or additionally, features used to describe a method canbe used to characterize an apparatus and features used to describe anapparatus can be used to characterize a method.

It should be further understood that the individual features describedhereinabove can be combined in all possible combinations andsub-combinations to produce additional embodiments of the invention. Theexamples given above are exemplary in nature and are not intended tolimit the scope of the invention which is defined solely by thefollowing claims.

Each recitation of an embodiment of the invention that includes aspecific feature, part, component, module or process is an explicitstatement that additional embodiments of the invention not including therecited feature, part, component, module or process exist. Specifically,the invention has been described in the context of tae kwon do andboxing but might also be used in kick boxing, karate and other martialarts training.

All publications, references, patents and patent applications mentionedin this specification are herein incorporated in their entirety byreference into the specification, to the same extent as if eachindividual publication, patent or patent application was specificallyand individually indicated to be incorporated herein by reference. Inaddition, citation or identification of any reference in thisapplication shall not be construed as an admission that such referenceis available as prior art to the present invention.

The terms “include”, and “have” and their conjugates as used herein mean“including but not necessarily limited to”.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A martial arts target handle comprising;(a) an accelerometer providing a first data output signal; (b) analtimeter providing a second data output signal; (c) a CPU receiving andstoring said first and second data output signals; and (d) a powersource providing power to said accelerometer, altimeter and CPU.
 2. Ahandle according to claim 1, comprising a connector to a strike-target.3. A handle according to claim 1, integrally formed with or connected toa strike target.
 4. A handle according to claim 1, comprising a display.5. A handle according to claim 1, comprising a wave guide extending fromsaid handle.
 6. A handle according to claim 1, comprising a connectorcompatible with an external charging source.
 7. A handle according toclaim 1, wherein said CPU comprises a clock and a time stamp moduleadapted to apply a time stamp to said first data output signal and saidsecond data output signal.
 8. A handle according to claim 1, comprisinga user interface positioned to receive commands from a hand holding saidhandle.